As we’ve learned over the years, it is far wiser to stay ahead of health concerns than to deal with the aftermath. This truth resonates even more deeply as we age, when our bodies require extra care.
We’ve all witnessed how quickly circumstances can change, highlighting the importance of protecting ourselves and our loved ones. Recently, an urgent health alert has emerged that calls for immediate attention.
NSW Health has raised the alarm about a measles outbreak, involving three infectious cases that have visited several locations in the area, potentially exposing the public to this highly contagious disease.
Unfortunately, measles, once a common childhood illness but now largely preventable through vaccination, has made an unwelcome return.
One of the reported cases involves an unvaccinated individual who recently travelled to Vietnam, where a large-scale measles outbreak is currently underway.
‘Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that spreads through the air when an infectious person coughs or sneezes,’ said Dr David Durrheim, Director of Public Health for Hunter New England Local Health District.
‘Symptoms to watch out for include fever, runny nose, sore eyes, and a cough, usually followed three or four days later by a red, blotchy rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body.’
This disease is not only highly contagious but can also lead to severe consequences if left untreated, posing a particular risk to young children.
Below is the list provided by NSW Health of locations and times where the infected individuals were present:
- Charlestown soccer ground
- 1 March from 2 – 5 pm
- Belmont Hospital emergency department
- 10 March from 10:30 am – 8:30 pm
- 23 March from 11 am – 6 pm
- Go Vita Lake Haven shopping centre
- 2 March from 11 am – 2 pm
- 16 March from 10 am – 4 pm
- Go Vita Mount Hutton shopping centre
- 17 March from 11 am – 5 pm
While these locations no longer pose an ongoing risk, it is crucial for anyone present during the specified times to monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days after exposure.
If symptoms develop, Dr Durrheim advises contacting a general practitioner or emergency department beforehand. This precaution helps to minimise the risk of spreading the disease to others in waiting areas.
The measles virus is airborne, and even brief contact with an infected person can lead to transmission. The good news is that vaccination remains the most effective defence against measles.
NSW Health is urging residents to check their vaccination status. It highlights that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is freely available for children aged 12 and 18 months and those born after 1965 who have not received two doses.
If you’re uncertain about your vaccination history, health authorities further explained that receiving an additional dose is safe. For those planning to travel overseas, they also added that it’s crucial to ensure that all travel vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine, are up to date.
Earlier this month, the South West Sydney local health district issued alerts as the state recorded over 10 confirmed cases in the year’s first quarter. Additionally, neighbouring states have seen increased transmissions due to outbreaks in the United States and Southeast Asia.
Have you travelled to any of these areas recently? What are your thoughts on this story? Share them with us in the comments below.
If you have any concerns or questions about measles or vaccinations, please contact your local health provider or visit the NSW Health website for more information.
Also read: COVID-19 dethroned as world’s deadliest infectious disease
